Veterinary neurology efforts expanded at MSU

STARKVILLE — Pet owners in Mississippi and surrounding states can turn to Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine when their animals develop neurological problems.

Dr. Andy Shores joined MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine as a clinical professor of neurosurgery and neurology and is leading the efforts to establish a partnership with a human imaging facility. The board-certified neurologist has brought three members of his neurology team from Auburn University to the unique opportunity at MSU.

“We saw a chance to start something new and special here by partnering with Premier Imaging in Starkville,” Shores said.

One side of the Stark Road facility will see human patients, and the other side will see animal clients beginning around April 1. Diagnostic imaging equipment will be used for humans and animals. MSU veterinarians will conduct clinic hours for diagnoses at Premier, but any surgery will take place on campus at MSU’s Animal Health Center.

“Students will complete rotations at the clinic and observe neurosurgical procedures, such as intracranial and spinal procedures, at the college,” Shores said. “The expansion in neurological services will provide pet owners better access to medical treatment for their animals, help future veterinarians gain experience and offer practicing veterinarians second opinions on their more difficult cases.”

Joining Shores at MSU are Dr. Erin Akin, a clinical instructor in neurology/neurosurgery; and Drs. Michaela Beasley and Nora Ortinau, both residents in neurology/neurosurgery.

“Our caseload is already growing, and we are receiving referrals from as far away as New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Memphis and Birmingham,” Shores said. “MSU is centrally located between other veterinary colleges with neurology programs.”